Martin Odegaard has endured a season he will not want to remember.
The Arsenal captain has struggled with multiple injury issues: two shoulder problems, two knee setbacks and a muscular concern. He has missed 22 games in all competitions so far, and these disruptions have made it difficult for him to find any rhythm.
On top of that, Odegaard’s performances have not been at the level fans expect from him. That has led to some calls for Arsenal to consider selling him this summer.
However, Mikel Arteta does not appear to share that view.
Explain your answer: Keep or sell Martin Odegaard?
Mikel Arteta wants to keep Martin Odegaard at Arsenal
Martin Odegaard is Arsenal’s captain and one of the most important players in the squad.
The Norway international’s influence goes beyond just what he does on the pitch, as he is also a key figure in the dressing room. Everyone looks up to him.
When Odegaard is at his best, he is one of the best attacking midfielders in world football.
There is no doubt that his form has dipped over the last year, and the injuries this season have only made things worse.
Despite that, the quality is still there, and players like him do not lose their ability overnight.
That is probably why Arteta is understood to be keen on keeping his skipper at the club, reports BBC Sport.
The report claims that Arsenal are ready to sell Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly, and the likes of Gabriel Martinelli, Ben White and Gabriel Jesus could be moved on as well.
However, Arteta is still minded to retain Odegaard’s services, which shows he still has full faith in his captain’s ability.
Tell us your thoughts on Martin Odegaard being Arsenal captain
Arsenal must make a decision on Martin Odegaard’s contract
Keeping Odegaard is not the wrong decision, especially because he still has the ability to return to his best once he is fully fit.
However, if Arsenal want him to stay, they need to act quickly on his contract situation.
The former Real Madrid man will enter the final two years of his deal in July, which puts the club in a delicate position. If nothing changes, he could be heading into the final year of his contract in 2027.
That is a situation Arsenal have handled poorly in the past with players like Robin van Persie, Alexis Sanchez, Mesut Ozil and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
To avoid repeating those mistakes, Andrea Berta must consider extending his contract if the decision is made to keep him at the club this summer.
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